For the Future Good

Highlights from the November 2017 issue of The ACCJ Journal

By C Bryan Jones

The ACCJ Journal November issue explores the future of cities as we bring you an exclusive interview with Mori Building Co., Ltd. CEO and President Shingo Tsuji, his first with an English-language publication. We also talk to new Coca-Cola (Japan) Co., Ltd. President Jorge Garduño about sustainability, work–life balance, and women in business, and investigate changes in real estate and banking technology.

FUTURE CITIES
The vision of Minoru Mori has transformed the Tokyo skyline over the past three decades, and continues to do so even after his passing under the leadership of Shingo Tsuji. Mori’s Vertical Garden City concept can be found in Roppongi Hills and Toranomon Hills, and the upcoming Toranomon–Azabudai Project promises to bring this vision to life like never before. On page 20, Tsuji shares the first public details about this project, along with what drives his leadership and his plans for expansion to Southeast Asia.

FUTURE HOMES
The transformation of Tokyo is opening up new living options. Whether you are looking to rent or purchase, there are plenty of properties for any budget. On page 26, we look at changes taking place in mid-market real estate and why there is better value to be had from investing in Tokyo than in cities such as London and New York.

FUTURE DRINKS
Coca-Cola is one of the most recognizable US brands in Japan. But the iconic soft drink is just one flavor in the company’s massive local portfolio. In fact, Japan is home to the widest range of Coca-Cola products in the world—and the most profitable ones might surprise you. On page 30, we sit down with Jorge Garduño, newly arrived from Spain, to learn more about the brand’s Japan operations, sustainability initiatives, and dedication to empowering women and young talent in the workplace.

FUTURE BANKINGAnyone who has lived in Japan for long knows how complex banking can be. Whether opening an account or transferring money, the paperwork involved can be time-consuming—to say nothing of the transaction process itself. But that is about to change as Japanese banks trial new blockchain technologies. On page 36, we talk to industry experts about how the new processes make banking simpler and more, and turn days into minutes.

There’s much more in this issue, including coverage of the ACCJ’s welcome back luncheon for new US Ambassador William F. Hagerty (page 11), thoughts on turning hardship into success from McDonald’s Company (Japan), Ltd. CEO Sarah Casanova (page 13), and the importance of US–Japan mentorships (page 19). And, join us next month for an exclusive in-depth interview with Ambassador Hagerty as The ACCJ Journal delves into the world of diplomacy.